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A Detail About Hurricane Milton and Helene No One Notices…

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As we watch the aftermath of the two devastating hurricanes of September and October 2024, Hurricane “Helene” and Hurricane “Milton”, we here at Cleaner Guys water damage restoration want to take this opportunity to impress upon people the importance of flood insurance.

“Something to keep in mind with what you’re hearing about the hurricane damage in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia is that pretty much no one in those areas had flood insurance.”, explained the owner of Cleaner Guys, Bob Shupe. “Specific wind damage from the hurricane may be covered by insurance. But once the water hits the ground and starts flowing, it’s now categorized as natural disaster flooding. Natural disaster flooding is usually excluded in typical homeowner’s insurance policies.

Why Doesn’t Most Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Flooding?

Most homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding because it is too high-risk and expensive for them (according to the Natural Resources Defense Council). Other kinds of water damage can be avoided through proper maintenance, or minimized and controlled by stopping the water source quickly. But flooding during a natural disaster like Hurricane Milton or Helene can’t be avoided or stopped. Once it starts, it’s going to run its course. This is what makes flooding far too risky and expensive for most average homeowner’s insurance policies to cover.

Do Most People Have Flood Insurance

No, most people do not have flood insurance. Most people don’t even realize that they probably have to get separate insurance for flooding! The owner of Cleaner Guys, Bob Shupe, explains further.

“If you’re wondering why the hurricane victims didn’t have flood insurance, it’s the same reason most people in WA don’t have it. Because it basically never happens, and people don’t expect it.”

Should I Have Flood Insurance?

If you live where flooding or hurricanes have been known to happen, it’s wise to have flood insurance. Flooding is a natural disaster, you can’t stop it from affecting your home once it starts. It’s better to have your home covered for flooding, for your own peace of mind.

Conclusion

“This is going to be a very, very long process to work though. So many people have lost absolutely everything.”, Bob stated solemnly. As we pray for those affected by these latest hurricanes, we want to impress on anyone who lives in a potential hurricane or flood zone: invest in flood insurance. Don’t be caught off-guard and lose everything.

water damage restoration with Cleaner Guys
Photo of a Cleaner Guys technician cleaning up flooding damage in Sedro Woolley, WA.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. No part of this article is medical or legal advice, and may not be used as such. For all serious medical matters, consult your doctor. For all serious legal matters, consult your legal advisor. This article contains Cleaner Guys’ experience and opinions only.

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